* On Dec. 19, 26, and 30, 2024 and on Jan. 3, 2025, Buffett bought more than $93 million in VeriSign ( VRSN -0.46%) stock.

Warren Buffett is known for his investing success, generating market-beating returns over the long run. As chairman, he's helped Berkshire Hathaway deliver a compounded annual gain of more than 19% over 58 years -- that's as the S&P 500 posted a compounded increase of about 10% during that period.

S&P 500 investors are playing it safer in 2025 — so Warren Buffett's careful stock-picking is in style again. Here's why I loaded up on shares of the real estate investment trust (REIT) in my retirement account.

Last year was a great one for stocks, with the S&P 500 confirming its presence in a bull market and soaring 23% for a second consecutive year of gains. Now, heading into 2025, that momentum could continue thanks to ongoing excitement about artificial intelligence (AI) stocks and the benefits of a lower interest rate environment.

Warren Buffett stock American Express is flashing a bullish signal after breaking out, with earnings due next week. American Express stock wavered in buy range on Thursday. Also, American Express on Thursday announced it would pay a roughly $230 million settlement following a Department of Justice criminal wire fraud investigation.